Vets for Pets
Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon
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Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon Colchester Vets4Pets 24hr Referral Hospital | 7 on / 21 off Rota
We are looking for an experienced and confident Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon to join our dedicated Emergency and Critical Care team at our modern, purpose-built referral hospital in Colchester.
This is a rare opportunity to work a highly attractive 7 nights on, 21 nights off rota in a well-supported environment, with access to excellent facilities and a genuinely collaborative team.
The Role
You will be responsible for managing emergency and critical care cases overnight, providing high-quality care for hospitalised patients, and delivering excellent clinical decision-making during the out-of-hours period.
- You will work alongside another ECC vet, two dedicated night RVNs and have full access to our day referral team for advice and support when needed.
- This is not a lone-working role - you will be part of a structured night team with strong backup.
- The role offers excellent exposure to a wide variety of interesting and often complex emergency cases, with the opportunity to further develop your ECC skills in a supportive setting.
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Why This Role Stands Out
- Exceptional work-life balance - 7 nights on, followed by 21 nights off, giving you long, uninterrupted periods away from work.
- Strong night team support - You will work with another ECC vet, two night RVNs plus very helpful and talented auxiliary staff, with additional clinical support available from our day team.
- Modern, well-equipped hospital - Purpose-built referral facility with CT, high and low flow oxygen therapy (Vapotherm), Mindray D30 defibrillator added to an extensively equipped crash trolley, environmentally controlled ICU enclosures, POCUS, endoscopy, and more.
- Collaborative ECC team - Join a team of 5 ECC vets (including residency-trained head of department, advanced practitioners and certificate holders). Two ECC vets are rostered daily with good overlap during peak hours.
- Genuine development opportunities - We actively support further training, whether that’s pursuing a certificate in ECC or another area of interest.
- Positive, respectful culture - We value our night vets and the vital role they play. You’ll be joining a stable, friendly and fully engaged multidisciplinary team of over 30 clinicians.
- Nearby Accommodation available during your working stints
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Who We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a confident, experienced veterinary surgeon with a genuine interest in emergency and critical care. You may already have ECC experience or be a capable all-rounder who enjoys the variety and challenge of out-of-hours work.
Full support and structured handover processes are in place, so you won’t be left to manage complex cases in isolation.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate starting from £60 per hour, depending on experience
- 7 on / 21 off rota (excellent work-life balance)
- Opportunity to develop your ECC skills with supported CPD
- Modern very well equipped facilities and a strong, collaborative team culture
Interested?
We’d love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion or to apply,
Please get in touch with JF Nell (JVP) jf.nell@vets4pets.com
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer
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